Skylight installation depends particularly on the type of skylight or roof window you wish to install. Today, there are different types of skylights available in the market, but these are broadly categorized as deck mounted skylights and curb mounted skylights, when it comes to the process on installation. The shape and structure of the skylight, roof slope, and type of insulated panel are the factors considered in installing different types of skylights. Skylight installation for the deck mounted roof windows can be achieved on roofs with a 14-85 degrees slope. This is one of the most popular types of skylights, and features built-in wooden frames and insulated glass lens that can be mixed with a protective cladding and mounted directly on the roof deck. Engineered flashings are available separately that integrate with the roofing materials to provide the most powerful and weather tight installation. Curb mounted skylights are ideal for roofs with minimal or no slope. Curb mounted skylight installations are achieved on roofs with a maximum slope of 0-60 degrees. These are skylights with insulated glass lens, which are combined with a durable metal frame, and mounted directly to the site-built curb. Separate engineered flashings are available with typical site-built curbs that can be integrated with roofing materials for a perfect, weather-tight installation.

The core purpose of skylight flashing, including all other roof flashing systems, is to keep the maximum possible of moisture on the surface of the roofing material. These are specifically created to shed water, without completely relying on the sealants that can eventually break down over wear and tear. There are different varieties of flashing systems available in the market, delivering a perfect weather tight fit for any type of slopes and roofs. Low profile skylight flashing system is ideal for roofs, as they are constructed from light-weight materials like shakes and shingles. On the other hand, high profile flashing is used for roofing systems, with thicker materials like concrete tile or Spanish varieties. For metal roofs, there is a variety of skylight flashing available in the market, known as metal flashing. Underlayment flashing systems guarantee added protection and best skylight fit from harsh weather conditions. Additionally, there are several other flashing solutions available for skylights installed on low-sloped or flat roof systems. To properly roof and flash around the skylight, slightly raising the curb can help, which includes adding 1 or 2 layers of lumber at the top of the curb. This also provides an impressive look to the inner side of the skylight.

Roof windows or skylights are the most effective source of sunlight and ventilation, allowing abundant daylight and fresh air to enter the room, thus, ensuring less use of the artificial lights. This leads to better energy efficiency during the day, and reduced environmental and financial costs. Catering to the diverse demands of people, there are different types of roof windows available in the market today, which can be broadly categorized as follows: 1. Fixed Roof Windows – Where ventilation is not required, fixed skylights or room windows are just ideal to have copious daylight and a charming view of the surroundings. As the name suggests, these do not come with an opening sash, and are generally ideal for stairwells, hallways, and other dark closed-in spaces that need plenty of daylight and sky views. 2. Manual Venting Roof Windows – Where manual operation and natural ventilation is desired, these roof windows are installed within the reach of the occupants. These are a cost effective solution to allow plenty fresh air and natural light into the room, with a perfect balance of moisture and comfort level. 3. Electric Venting Roof Windows – These are used as overhead installations in areas like bath and kitchen that require ample natural ventilation. With just a touch of button, these skylights allow plenty of fresh air and natural light into the room.

Roof skylights are special types of roof windows that are particularly built and installed to allow abundant fresh air and natural light to enter the home directly. Often installed as a part of energy efficiency strategy or for aesthetic purposes, these skylights are available in different materials, designs, functionalities and additional components. No matter what, the sole purpose is to ensure maximum energy efficiency and reduced costs with ample supply of natural daylight and fresh air, for vented skylights. On the basis of functionality, roof skylights can be categorized as fixed and ventilating. While the former is permanently fixed on the roof with no outlet or inlet, the latter is installed where ventilation is necessary, offering abundant flow of fresh air inside and keeping a balance of moisture and air flow. These can be manual, operated with a hand crank or sash, or electronic operated with a remote. On the basis of design and shape, roof skylights can be categorized as flat, round, polygon, pyramid, dome, ridge, barrel vault, and hip ridge skylight. Tubular roof skylight is also popularly used in small rooms and hallways where the traditional skylights won’t fit into size. It is important to note that price and installation procedure for different skylights will vary.

Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional installation service, safety should be the top priority to install skylights. It is important to know and follow OSHA regulations and standards as applicable from time to time. This is especially true for installing roof skylights. Following are the important safety precautions to take to install skylights. • Follow OSHA regulations to work on more than 6 feet above the lower level • The installer should be experienced, trained and supervised • Wear eye protection • Prepare the curb and roof opening prior to installing the skylight. The opening should be accurately dimensioned in flat and square • Good housekeeping is essential prior to any roof work • For severe weather conditions, suspend the installation process till the weather turns good • Be careful from the wind when installing skylights. It is the most serious hazard that make the installer lose balance • The fasteners and sealant used to install skylights should comply with AAMA’s recommendation and manufacturer’s instructions • For roof structure modifications, the installer should talk to the engineer prior to installation to ensure that the safety and strength of the roof remains intact Taking these safety precautions will make it easier and hassle free to install skylights.